Known For

Glasgow

We're not exaggerating when we say that we think Glasgow is one of the most exciting cities you'll ever come across. Scotland's largest city is a lively, bustling place, distinctive and full of character, where you are bound to get a very warm welcome indeed.

Known For

Aberdeen

It's the powerful contrasts that give Aberdeen its personality: laid-back and fun-loving, dynamic and modern, cultured and historic, with wonderful cityscapes that meet the sea and lots of down-to-earth charm.

Known For

Isle of Arran

Ayrshire & Arran
Ah, bonnie Arran - we like to think of it as the gem of the Firth of Clyde. Here you can find a little bit of everything you'd ever want from a Scottish island; an ever-changing coastline, dramatic mountain peaks, sheltered beaches, verdant forests, cultural festivals and abundant local produce.

Known For

Aviemore

Highlands
Aviemore is surrounded by lush Highland scenery in the north west corner of the majestic Cairngorms National Park. Towering mountains, sparkling lochs and dense forests surround this bustling village, making it a popular year-round destination for a huge range of summer and winter activities.

Known For

Dumfries

Dumfries & Galloway
This historic market town more than lives up to its local nickname of 'The Queen of the South'. Connected by lovely russet-hued sandstone bridges which straddle the grassy banks of the River Nith, this former royal burgh has an interesting history and special connection to Robert Burns.

Known For

Dundee

One of Scotland's seven cities, Dundee has acquired a few names over the years - 'one city, many discoveries', 'jute, jam and journalism', and, very recently, a 'UNESCO City of Design'. But we think there's so much more that can be said about this dynamic, compact city!

Known For

Fort William

Highlands
There's much more to Fort William than simply bagging Ben Nevis - although climbing the tallest mountain in the UK is, of course, quite a feat. Think pubs stocking fine Scotch whisky, daredevil mountain-biking, loch-side wanders and even trips aboard the steam train that took Harry to Hogwarts.

Known For

Glencoe

Highlands
Located within the awe-inspiring Lochaber Geopark in the Highlands, the deep valley and towering mountains of Glen Coe were carved out centuries ago by icy glaciers and volcanic explosions. Glencoe village is picturesquely set between the banks of Loch Leven and the mouth of the famous glen.

Known For

Inverness

Highlands
Crowned by a pink crenellated castle, the Highland capital really has got all the elements for a memorable city break. Explore a thriving culinary scene, lively pubs and bars, great shops and the spread of galleries and cultural attractions, all set close to the pretty banks of the River Ness.

Known For

Isle of Islay

Argyll & The Isles
Islay, the 'Queen of the Hebrides', is probably best known for its peaty, smoky whiskies. Some say they are the best in the whole world. Home to eight working distilleries, Islay definitely has the process of making the stuff down to a fine art. Sláinte!

Known For

Isle of Jura

Argyll & The Isles
The gorgeously untamed island of Jura is one of Scotland's wildest places. Located off the west coast, the long and narrow island is known for its soaring mountains, delectable whisky, a swirling whirlpool and local population of just 200 people (who are outnumbered hugely by over 5,000 wild deer).

Known For

Kirkwall

Orkney
Orkney's bustling capital is an ancient Norse town, standing at the divide between the East and West Mainland. An 11th century marvel, the town was founded by Earl Rognvald Brusason who built his Kingdom here. This little town is just one example of the archipelago's fascinating past.

Known For

Lerwick

Shetland
The only proper town in Shetland, Lerwick is a standalone gem. With a proud maritime heritage and the ancient Norse roots, this settlement has grown slowly but surely and is now a bustling port for trade, business and visitors to the isles. It's the perfect starting point for exploring Shetland

Known For

Lewis, Harris & Stornoway

Outer Hebrides
When you arrive in Stornoway, you just know you're about to begin an unforgettable Hebridean adventure. The harbour town is the portal to discovering a dramatic island landscape, rich in natural and historical heritage, and it's the epicentre of Gaelic culture.

Known For

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & The Forth Valley
Loch Lomond is one of our most beautiful and iconic places.The mesmerising loch lies in the heart of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, surrounded by charming villages, lush countryside and rolling hills, and is a place where you can try lots of brilliant activities.

Known For

Loch Ness

Highlands
This beautiful loch is shrouded in mystery, all thanks to a long, thin green creature that circles the deep waters, occasionally raising her head above the water for a picture. It goes without saying that Nessie is our favourite monster, but the place where she lives is even more fascinating.

Known For

Isle of Mull

Argyll & The Isles
There really is no need to 'mull over' the decision on whether you should visit the Isle of Mull - this Inner Hebridean island is filled with possibilities. Located off the western mainland, it's the third largest island in Scotland and one of the most accessible, being served by three ferries.

Known For

Oban

Argyll & The Isles
When it comes to having an unforgettable break, Oban is definitely a place which is big on things to see and do. Surrounded by miles of dramatic coast and beautiful countryside, it's known as the Gateway to the Isles, as a number of ferries depart from its port and travel to the Hebridean islands.

Known For

Peebles

Scottish Borders
Gorgeous little towns on the banks of the River Tweed are a common thing in the glorious Scottish Borders, and perhaps none are as pretty as Peebles. Only a short distance from Edinburgh, it is certainly no ordinary town, with its spectacular scenery, shopping, cafés, events and outdoors activities.

Known For

Perth

Scotland's ancient capital for five centuries, the 'Fair City' of Perth is now the country's newest city. Bustling, compact and beautifully situated on the banks of the River Tay, Perth is a sparkling cosmopolitan gem that keeps on giving visit after visit.

Known For

Pitlochry

Perthshire
Pitlochry is an excellent base for exploring Perthshire. Breathe in fresh air and stand back to admire the view. The town is nestled amongst the stunning scenery of Highland Perthshire, where the refreshing greenery of the forests in spring transforms into a blaze of golds and reds come autumn.

Known For

Isle of Skye

Highlands
Skye is a truly magical place, home to some of Scotland's most iconic landscapes. Whether you're visiting for a few days whilst touring Scotland or staying for a longer spell, the island has countless ways to enchant you, with its mountain ranges, miles of dramatic coastline and captivating history.

Known For

St Andrews

Kingdom of Fife

Standing proudly on the east coast of Scotland, historic St Andrews is a jewel in the crown of Fife. The town offers panoramic views out across the North Sea and is famous for its historic university, medieval streets, gorgeous traditional buildings and, of course, its world-famous golf courses.

Known For

Stirling

A wee city with a big history, Stirling punches well above its weight for historic attractions and spectacular scenery, not to mention shopping, places to eat and events. It's home to a number of iconic Scottish landmarks which include Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument.

Known For

Argyll & The Isles

Find stunning scenery and island paradises in the awe-inspiring Argyll & The Isles. The region is home to 23 inhabited islands, each offering tranquil beaches and their own unique cultures, while the coastline and countryside of the mainland will take your breath away.

Known For

Ayrshire & Arran

Easy to reach and even easier to explore, Ayrshire & Arran sits on the west coast of Scotland and is the perfect place to discover the charms of island life, countryside towns and sandy shores. The region is also home to the birthplace of the National Bard and many other historical treasures.

Known For

Dumfries & Galloway

From the rocky and sandy coast looking out for miles across the sea, to the lush green inland forests and hills, Dumfries & Galloway is simply amazing. It's the region in south west Scotland which has inspired writers, artists and creative types and is a haven for wildlife.

Known For

Dundee & Angus

What do you get when you combine the country's first UNESCO City of Design and a splendid countryside which has helped bring us Aberdeen Angus beef, Arbroath Smokies and Peter Pan? The beautiful and vibrant region of Dundee & Angus, of course!

Known For

Edinburgh & The Lothians

Edinburgh and the Lothians are so close, yet they're both so very different. Scotland's capital city borders the lush countryside and the attractive coastline of the Lothians, and together they offer visitors a captivating blend of rich history, natural beauty and adventure.

Known For

Greater Glasgow & The Clyde Valley

Head to Greater Glasgow & The Clyde Valley to discover the cosmopolitan delights of Scotland's largest city, or explore the wealth of natural scenery, great family days out, industrial heritage and fascinating history in the towns and countryside in the Clyde Valley.

Known For

Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley

Stretching across central Scotland from east to west, the landscapes of this region are wonderfully diverse. Explore coast, country, glens, mountains and a city to find wonders including a National Park, enchanting castles, giant horse head sculptures and the world's only rotating boat lift.

Known For

Orkney

Come to Orkney for the wildlife, the beaches and the history, and we reckon that you'll fall for the culture and the creativity too. This archipelago of around 70 islands lies north of mainland Scotland and was voted one of the UK's top 10 islands in the 2015 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards.

Known For

Outer Hebrides

Oh, the magical Outer Hebrides. Arriving on these incredible islands, you really will feel like you have escaped from it all. Discover a different pace of life as you explore untouched coasts and countryside, fascinating history and unique island cultures.

Known For

The Highlands

The Highlands is an amazing concoction of culture, history, nature and unparalleled scenery. Think big skies, mind-blowing landscapes, superb food and hospitable people - it really doesn't get any better if you want to escape and unwind.

Known For

The Kingdom of Fife

Fife's rustic villages, charming towns and unspoilt coastline conspire to give the region a certain 'wow' factor. While St Andrews is undoubtedly the best kept jewel in the Fife's crown, there's much more to Fife that will spoil urban travellers, explorers, cyclists, museum-goers and foodies alike.

Known For

Shetland

An archipelago made up of more than 100 islands, 15 of which are inhabited, the Shetland Isles are closer to Norway than mainland Scotland. As a result the islands have a unique cultural heritage which includes fantastically preserved archaeological sites and a spectacular fire festival.

Known For

Scottish Borders

The Scottish Borders has a colourful past which belies its serene landscape. The many stately homes, haunting castles and four magnificent abbeys are testament to its rich and occasionally turbulent history.

Known For

By road

Scotland's road network makes it easy to drive around and provides efficient travel between cities and major towns, and access to rural areas. The motorway network runs across the central belt, with major links further north to Aberdeen and south to England. Trunk roads connect the rest of Scotland.

By sea

Get to Scotland's inhabited islands by ferry. Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) operates routes to over 20 destinations in the the Firth of Clyde and the Inner and Outer Hebrides. NorthLink Ferries connect Orkney and Shetland to the mainland, and inter-island travel is served by council-run ferries.

By air

Scotland has four main airports; Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick, Edinburgh and Aberdeen, plus many regional airports spread across the country in Dundee, Inverness, Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland. There is a wide range of interconnecting flights between the main and regional airports.